Talerett

Talerett, or the right to speak, refers to a procedural right in deliberative bodies that allows participants to address the meeting, present arguments, comment on agenda items, and respond to other speakers. It is a functional counterpart to the general right to express opinions, focusing on when and how speaking is permitted within a formal proceeding rather than on expressive freedom in society at large.

In practice, talerett is defined by the rules of procedure of the relevant body, such as a national parliament, a municipal or county council, or a public hearing. Members and political groups typically have established talerett; members of the public may be granted limited speaking rights in certain sessions, such as public comment periods. The presiding officer or chair controls who receives the floor, when it is taken, and how long each speaker may speak.

Procedural aspects of talerett include time limits, relevance to the item under discussion, and the order of speakers. Speakers generally must address the current agenda item and adhere to decorum. Rules may prohibit disallowed conduct, such as harassment, personal attacks, or statements that violate other laws.

Talerett serves to facilitate orderly deliberation and public participation, while remaining subject to the body's rules and the broader legal framework. It does not imply a universal or unlimited platform for speech, nor does it override other legal restrictions such as those on defamation or hate speech.

See also: ytringsfrihet (freedom of expression); offentlige møter (public meetings); forvaltningsorganers møteording (rules of procedure).